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Writers have perhaps the simplest requirements in mobile computers. Long battery life, decent screen resolutions, and maybe a little bit of security to ensure that nobody can access your files if the machine happens to be stolen.

If the primary purpose of the notebook is to write articles, emails, surf and use instant messaging applications, you could technically get away with a 5 year old notebook and perhaps buy a new battery to get two or three hours out of the computer. However, if you're looking for something that has an incredible battery life and a little security, then I'd suggest either the Lenovo T6x-series (T60p is one of the best, I think), or HP's nc-series or new 8510p range of products. These models allow for multiple batteries to be used and typically offer over 8 hours of normal operation, as well as finger-print readers to ensure there's no unauthorized access to your files.

I'm using a 4 year-old HP nc-series notebook and have used this for everything from writing enterprise-grade software with various employers, to writing novels, newspaper articles and everything in-between. Computers were initially designed to be word processors, so we don't need the fastest or the most high-end. Quite often these faster machines just drain away more of that valuable battery power than necessary.

Learn more about this author, Jason Irwin.
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